A solution for Isa's bat problem?

The animals have already started arriving in the Isa, with 500,000 expected in the North West Queensland city for roosting season.

Mining company Xstrata has agreed to hand over some land for a bat forest, in a deal struck with Mount Isa City Council.

Mount Isa mayor Tony McGrady says it's a long-term plan.

"We're hoping in two years time- when the forest has started to grow and there are trees- we will have a roosting place where the bats can go and roost and not cause any annoyance or inconvenience to people," Mr McGrady says.

The bats commonly roost around the cemeteries and the city where there are trees.

Common complaints about the animals are that they smell and are noisy.

Mr McGrady says people around the Isa will need to be patient with the bats until the new forest begins to grow.

"This year bats will come, next year the bats will come and there's nothing anyone can do except the Almighty," he says.

Bats, also known as flying foxes, are protected under Queensland State Government legislation.

Anyone who kills or moves the animals without permission from the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection will face hefty penalties.

Tips for living near flying foxes

Don't leave washing out at night. That way, you won't need to worry about your clothes being 'bombed' by bats.

Park your car under shelter. If your car's paint is old, it may peel off when bat droppings are removed.

Avoid disturbing roosts. Bats tend to be noisier when they are frightened.

Plant roost trees away from houses. Over time, a roost may be encouraged to move by planting roost trees further away from houses.